Builder deposit and payment schedule checker
Paste in the contract value and each proposed payment. This tool shows the deposit percentage, how much is due before major stages are finished, whether a retention is held, and flags anything above the 5-10% deposit guidance. Free, no sign-up, nothing leaves your device.
Last updated October 2026 · built by working UK builders
How to read a builder payment schedule
A fair schedule keeps a small deposit (5-10%, or nil), then pays for work you can see. Hold about 5% until snagging is done. Calendar-date payments and large upfront sums are the usual problems. Read the full guide on how much deposit to pay a builder and stage payments.
Suggested stage pattern (extension)
- Deposit 5-10% on signing
- Foundations complete and inspected
- Walls / structure to agreed level
- Roof on and weathertight
- First fix complete
- Plaster / dry-lining complete
- Practical completion less ~5% retention
- Retention released after snagging (often 3-6 months)
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Frequently asked questions
How much deposit should I pay a builder?
A deposit of 5-10% is normal, or nothing at all. The rest should follow finished stages of work, with a retention held until snagging is done.
What is a fair builder payment schedule?
Small deposit, then payments tied to completed stages you can see (and where relevant that building control has inspected), with about 5% retained until snagging is finished.
Is a 25% or 50% deposit too much?
A 50% deposit before work starts is a major warning sign. Around 25% is the upper end often cited in consumer advice and needs a clear written reason. Prefer 5-10%.
Should stage payments follow dates or finished work?
Finished work. Calendar-date payments remove your leverage if the job slows down.